What is the difference between a counsellor, psychologist, clinical psychologist and psychiatrist?

Some confusion exists about the various levels of psychological services available.

Counsellors

Some counsellors are professionally qualified and have completed recognised and accredited training in order to evaluate and respond holistically to the needs of individuals, families, couples, groups or communities to resolve a range of issues affecting their emotional wellbeing and social functioning. No Medicare rebates are currently available on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for counselling services.

Registered Psychologists

To be eligible for registration, a psychologist must hold a 4 year recognised university degree and successfully complete a period of two years supervised practical experience. Psychologists study human behaviour, thought processes and emotions. Their work with individuals, couples, families, groups or organisations may include psychometric assessments; applied research and evaluation; ethical, legal and professional issues; counselling; psychotherapy; learning/training and development; consultancy; career guidance; employee assistance programs and more. Medicare rebates are currently available on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for the services of registered psychologists.

Clinical Psychologists

To be eligible for registration, a clinical psychologist must hold a master's degree (MA) or doctorate (Ph.D.) in clinical psychology. They may also have other qualifications, including board certification and additional training in a specific type of therapy. Clinical psychologists evaluate clients through interviews, observation, and psychological tests. Current research findings and methodologies form the basis of diagnosing mental disorders and assigning treatments. Medicare rebates are currently available on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for the services of registered clinical psychologists. Clinical psychologists cannot prescribe medications.

Psychiatrists

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specialising in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. After graduating from medical school psychiatrists must complete four years of residency training in psychiatry. This extensive medical training enables the psychiatrist to understand the body's functions and the complex relationship between emotional illness and other medical illnesses. Medicare rebates are currently available on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for the services of psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication.